The Government's announced it will contribute $1.5 million to the FIFA under-17 Women's World Cup, beginning in New Zealand later this month.
Prime Minister Helen Clark says the $11.8 million tournament is one of the largest women's sporting events to be held here.
The money will come from a Ministry for Economic Development fund intended to maximise the returns from hosting major events.
Miss Clark says the government is determined to build the country's reputation as a host for future major sporting events.
She says Football New Zealand has recruited more than 1,000 volunteers, and their skills will be particularly useful when the Rugby World Cup is hosted here.
There are 16 teams playing in the tournament, with 32 games in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch, and an estimated worldwide television audience of 125 million.
